Number the Stars Fear Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

The German word was as familiar as it was frightening. Annemarie had heard it often enough before, but it had never been directed at her until now. (1.9-10)

The word "stop," when written on a red octagonal sign, is pretty harmless, right? But put that word in the mouth of a soldier, and everything changes. It's not the words that matter, it's how they're put to use.

Quote #2

When they were almost home, Ellen whispered suddenly, "I was so scared."

"Me too," Annemarie whispered back. (1.38-39)

It's not easy to admit that you're scared, and in this case, it wouldn't have been safe. But if you can't tell your best friend, then who can you tell? Do you think Annemarie was just as scared as Ellen, or do you think she was just trying to comfort her friend?

Quote #3

Ellen interrupted him. "Who might come? Will it be soldiers? Like the ones on the corners?" Annemarie remembered how terrified Ellen had looked the day when the soldier had questioned them on the corner. (4.76)

Annemarie has some major practice comforting people—after all, she's pretty much the best big sister ever. So it's not tough for her to tell when Ellen needs that same kind of comforting. Annemarie is obviously scared of the soldiers, too, but she's able to overcome her own fears and put her friend first.